Lakewood Child Custody Lawyer

Child Custody Attorney In Lakewood

After a divorce, determining where your child will live and who will make important decisions on their behalf can be overwhelming. A Lakewood child custody lawyer at the Law Office of Michael P. Granata understands the emotional and stressful nature of child custody cases. We guide parents through this process with a dedication toward protecting their parental rights.

Understanding Child Custody in Lakewood

Throughout Texas, custody is referred to as conservatorship. This involves determining who will care for the child and how important decisions about their lives are made. In the U.S., over 20 million children live with one parent outside the household.

Child custody cases involve parental decision-making responsibilities and parenting time. Texas laws encourage both parents to play active roles in their children’s lives. Courts generally prefer arrangements that allow the child to maintain strong, ongoing relationships with both parents, unless safety concerns dictate otherwise. The Law Office of Michael P. Granata can help you understand the specifics of these laws.

Starting a Custody Case

The process of starting a custody case can be daunting. Custody cases usually begin because of a divorce or when unmarried parents request custody arrangements by filing a separate custody case.

Once the case is filed, both parents need to attend mediation or parenting classes. These steps help parents work together to focus on the child’s best interests.

The Law Office of Michael P. Granata works with you through each step of the process. We can assist you with filing paperwork and represent you in court hearings. Our goal is to make you feel supported and heard.

Child Custody and the Marital Residence

Deciding where the child will live can be one of the most sensitive aspects of a custody dispute. Courts consider how stability in the child’s living environment can impact their lives. Factors the courts consider include:

• Which parent has been the primary caregiver
• The child’s connection to their school and community
• The ability of each parent to provide a safe and stable home
• The child’s own wishes, depending on their age and maturity

Each arrangement is unique and should be designed to provide the child with the most consistent and loving environment.

What Is the Best Interest of the Child?

In every custody case, the best interests of the child is the priority. Texas courts look at a wide range of factors, such as:

• The child’s relationship with each parent
• The child’s adjustment to home, school, and community
• The stability of each parent’s home environment
• Each parent’s ability to provide for the child’s physical and emotional needs
• The willingness of each parent to encourage a relationship between the child and the other parent

No single factor determines the custody ruling. The Law Office of Michael P. Granata understands the importance of this decision for your family. We work to demonstrate your commitment to your child and fight for an arrangement that serves your child’s well-being.

Modifying a Child Custody Order

When circumstances change, so do the needs of the parents and children. Custody orders don’t always work forever. If your family’s needs change, custody arrangements can be modified. Some common reasons parents seek modification can include:

• A parent moving to a new city or state
• Changes in a parent’s work schedule
• Concerns about a child’s safety or well-being
• Shifts in the child’s needs as they grow older
• A parent failing to follow the existing orders

The Law Office of Michael P. Granata can assist parents in petitioning for modifications or responding when the other parent requests a change.

Why You Should Choose Michael P. Granata

When it comes to child custody cases, you need an experienced advocate on your side. The Law Office of Michael P. Granata handles a wide range of child custody cases, boasting over 26 years of experience and board service with the Dallas Bar Association Family Law Section. Since every situation is unique, we take the time to understand your specific circumstances and develop a tailored legal strategy that helps you achieve your objectives.

Legal jargon can be confusing. We explain everything in plain language, so you always know what’s happening and what the next steps look like.

Our team works with you through negotiations and inside the courtroom. By working with Michael P. Granata, you gain a dedicated Lakewood child custody attorney who genuinely cares about you and your child’s well-being.

FAQs

What Is the Biggest Mistake in a Custody Battle?

The biggest mistake in a custody battle is putting personal conflicts ahead of your child’s best interests when making decisions. Courts focus on stability and what is in the best interests of the child. Parents who criticize or alienate each other can damage their case. Other mistakes include failing to follow court orders, neglecting documentation, or appearing unprepared.

Who Wins Most Child Custody Cases in Texas?

In Texas, custody decisions aren’t automatically awarded to one parent. Mothers primarily receive custody more often. In Texas, about 33% of children live with their fathers. However, the parent who can demonstrate that they provide a stable, supportive, and safe environment usually has the strongest chance of winning custody. Judges may also grant joint conservatorship, where parents share significant rights and responsibilities regarding custody.

What Looks Bad in a Custody Case?

Several actions can look bad in a custody case. Some examples include evidence of neglect, substance abuse, domestic violence, or unsafe living conditions. In addition, if a parent consistently misses visits, speaks negatively about the other parent in front of the child, or disregards court orders, it can raise red flags for the judge.

What Should You Not Say to a Family Court Judge?

In Dallas County Family Court, parents should avoid negative or disrespectful statements about the other parent. Never interrupt the judge or make unsupported accusations. Showing indifference to the child’s well-being can also devastate credibility. Judges expect honesty, respect, and focus on the child’s best interests. Just speak calmly and be respectful to be most effective in the courtroom.

Hire a Child Custody Lawyer

Custody decisions can shape your child’s life for years to come. That’s why having the right legal guidance is imperative.

The Law Office of Michael P. Granata is committed to standing beside you at every step of the legal process. Let us help protect your relationship and time with your child. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.